Bulldogs on semi-finals loss: 'We did really well for where we got'

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EUGENE, Ore. -- Last week the North Bend girls soccer team’s deep playoff run came to an end in the state semi-finals, just two wins shy of winning the state championship. Head coach Dustin Hodd said the team can now look back on a very successful season, as the younger players gleaned key experience they can use going into next year.

“You know, we started the season out believing we belonged and talked about belonging and talked about playing on November 16,” said Coach Hood in reference to the state title match held Saturday.

A 1-0 loss to La Grande cut the Bulldogs’ dream season short.

"It's a matter of who wanted it more and i think we tried to want it as much as they did but we couldn't net one in the back of the net,” said Emma Powley, a sophomore on the team.

The girls netted several goals throughout the season, on their way to school history.

“No other girl soccer team at this school has made it to the semi-finals or gotten third,” said senior Mikena Shay.

“We all work so hard and work well together,” added senior Jordyn Johnson. “And like Mikena said, we wanted the far west league championship which we got and of course we wanted to go farther in state but I think we did really well for where we got.”

With only three seniors on the team this year, the Bulldogs will have an experienced group returning for next season.

”Definitely have big expectations I think we can make it to the semi's again, I think and hopefully go past that,” said Powley.

A lot of the girls are going to be busy playing winter and then spring sports, but as soon as summer hits the girls say they're ready to get back on the practice field and chase down a state title.